Superintendent Resigns After Admitting He Brought a Gun to School Following a Threat From a Student

Tioga, ND Superintendent D’Wayne Johnston hasn’t publicly released what was said during a confrontation with a high school student who was ultimately expelled, but he has said there was a threat from the student which kept him awake that night.

The following day, when Johnston entered the high school, he was armed, carrying a handgun on his person.

After someone noticed the gun, which was being carried in a “small of the back” holster, under his suit, Johnston admitted to bringing it and soon after issued a letter of resignation.

“I really believe that it’s going to be in the best interest of the kids, the school, the community and myself,” Johnston said. “I’ve let this community down in a big way.”

Earlier this year, the North Dakota legislature considered a bill which would have allowed individuals with a carry permit to carry guns onto school campuses, but the bill ultimately did not pass.

Since this is North Dakota, and not say, New York, there is actually some discussion about letting Johnston continue the school year, and many parents are calling the school board in support of Johnston.

The Tioga area is struggling to keep up with a steady stream of new students as more and more families move to the region to take advantage of the current North Dakota Oil Boom.